Selecting the right battery for the Citroën DS3 (2009–2016) is a crucial step to ensure dependable starting performance and optimal function of the car’s electronics. Given the wide range of petrol and diesel engines offered in the DS3 lineup, along with the presence or absence of Start-Stop technology, battery requirements vary significantly. Understanding these needs will help you choose a battery that not only fits physically but also performs reliably under various conditions.
Petrol engines without Start-Stop, such as the 1.2 VTi 82, 1.4 VTi 95, 1.6 THP 155, and even performance models like the 1.6 Racing, generally use lead-acid batteries in the 50 to 54 Ah range, with a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 420 and 540 A. These engines are relatively light on power demands and can operate efficiently with conventional batteries. Suitable examples include Bosch S40 02, Exide EA530, and Varta C22. These models provide adequate power for daily driving while maintaining affordability and availability.
For more powerful petrol variants like the 1.6 VTi 120 and the 1.6 THP 150, as well as some racing editions with outputs up to 152 kW, a higher-capacity battery is necessary. These engines call for 60 to 65 Ah batteries with CCA ratings from 540 to 640 A. This extra capacity supports not only the higher engine compression but also the increased number of onboard electronics. Examples of compatible models include Bosch S50 05, Exide EB620, and Varta D15. These provide better reliability during cold starts and are built to handle moderate power surges.
The diesel versions without Start-Stop, like the 1.6 HDi 90 and 110, share similar requirements with their petrol counterparts in terms of battery specifications. The recommendation here is also 60–65 Ah and 540–640 A CCA, using standard lead-acid technology. Batteries such as the Halfords HCB 027, Lucas LS027, or Exide EA640 are commonly used and well-suited to the demands of these engines.
However, for diesel models with Start-Stop systems such as the 1.4 HDi 70, 1.6 HDi 90, 110, and 115, an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery is essential. These advanced batteries are designed to cope with the frequent start-stop cycles and the greater energy recovery that characterizes these models. They must deliver consistent performance, even in urban driving conditions with many stops and short trips. The required capacity in these cases is generally 70–72 Ah, with a CCA of 720–760 A. Recommended AGM battery examples include Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK720, and Varta E39. These models are well-known for their durability and ability to maintain voltage stability under heavy load.
One interesting aspect of the Citroën DS3 is how the battery is integrated into the engine bay with limited space. As such, it’s crucial to match the physical size and terminal layout precisely to avoid installation issues. Many DS3 owners have also noted that AGM batteries, while more expensive, tend to offer longer service life, especially in cars used primarily in cities where Start-Stop activation is frequent.
While the DS3 does not feature particularly complex energy management systems compared to newer models, it is still recommended to reset the battery monitoring system or perform a BMS registration when replacing a battery in Start-Stop variants. This helps ensure proper charging and extends battery lifespan.
With a stylish design and sporty personality, the Citroën DS3 was a standout in the supermini segment during its production run. Ensuring it has the correct battery keeps it performing at its best, whether you drive the frugal 1.4 HDi or the punchy 1.6 THP Racing version. Choosing a quality battery from a trusted brand not only prevents breakdowns but also enhances the overall driving experience.
Citroen DS3 was produced in the years 2009 – 2016. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Citroen DS3 (2009-2016):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Citroen DS3 – petrol engines:
- 1.2 VTi 82
- 1.4 VTi 95
- 1.4 VTi 95 LPG
- 1.6 Racing (149 kW)
- 1.6 THP 155
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB500 | 50 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA530 | 53 Ah 540 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 012 | 52 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic C22 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C30 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
Citroen DS3 – petrol engines:
- 1.6 Racing (152 kW)
- 1.6 THP 150
- 1.6 VTi 120
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Citroen DS3 – diesel engines:
- 1.6 HDi 110
- 1.6 HDi 90
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Citroen DS3 – diesel engines:
- 1.4 HDi 70 – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 HDi 110 – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 HDi 115 – with Start-Stop
- 1.6 HDi 90 – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Citroen DS3 , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!